Writing device



H. l. MORRIS March 25, .1930.

WRITING DEVICE 4 Sheets-Sheet Filed Dec. 29, 1921 March 25, 1930.

H. l. MORRIS WRITING DEVICE Fned Dec'. 29, 1921 4 Sheets-Sheet 2 31H01 neil March 25, 1930. H. l. MORRIS 1,751,941

WRITING DEVICE Filed Dee. 29, 1921 4 sheets-sheet 5 March 25, 1930. H. l. MORRISl 1,751,941

WRITING DEVICE Fed Dec. 29, 1921 4 Sheets-Sheet 4 Patented Mar. 25, 1.930

UNITED STATES LY'PATENT ori-ica HOWARD .'I.l MORRIS, 0F CLEVELAND, OHIO, ASSIGNOR TO THE YODEB PENCIL COMPANY, OF CLEVELAND, OHIO, A. CORPORATION OF OHIO WRITING DEVICE Application filed December 29, 1921. Serial No. 525,585.

This invention relates to a writin device, such as a pencil, more particularly t at type of pencil in which the writing element or lead is fed endwise relative to the writing end of the holder or body portion of the device.

One object of the invention is to provide a pencil of this type having a self feeding writing element or lead.

Another object of the invention is to pro- ;0 vide an improved pencil in which means are provided for automatically feeding the writing element or lead endwise relative to the holder or body portion of the device.

Another object of the invention is to provide automatic feeding means for the writing element or lead of a pencil of relatively simple construction.

Another object of the invention is to provide a pencil with novel feeding means, the elements of which are so arranged that the writing element is caused to automatically feed forward as writing progresses.

Another object of the invention is to provide an improved feeding means for the lead of a pencil, the elements of which are so arranged and correlated that by the operation of placing its exposed or writin end against a surface and pressin the pencil toward the surface, the lead may e fed forwardly without changing the position of the hand or shifting the pencil therein. f

Another object ofthe invention is to provide a pencil of the lead feeding type in which the feeding mechanism is operable'by pressure upon or movement of the pencil body portion substantially longitudinally toward a surface on which writing is being effected, whereby the lead may be rapidly and easily fed forwardly without changing the position of the hand or shifting the pencil therein.

Another object of the invention is to provide an improved pencil of the lead feeding type in which the feed mechanism is operated by an inward endwise movement of the lead, whereby the latter is exposed for writing purposes in a quick and ready manner.

Another object of the invention is to pro vide an improved pencil in which a device, arranged adjacent to the writing point of 50 the lead, is adapted to engage the paper or surface as the point wears away, and by such engagement to cause the lead to feed forwardly for writing purposes.

A further object of the invention is to provide a pencil havino' an improved lead feed- 55 ing mechanism which is controlled by a device arranged adjacent to the exposed portion of the lead and in position to engage the paper or surface on which writing is effected, and operating by such engagement, as the lead wears away, to actuate the feeding mechanism to expose the adjacent portion of the lead, whereby a writing point is Substantially continuously provided.

Other objects of the invention will be apparent to those skilled in the -art to which my invention relates from the following description taken in connection with the accompanying drawings.

In the drawings, Fig. 1 is a longitudinal 70 sectional view of a writing device or pencil embodying my invention.

Fig. 2 1s a fragmentary sectional view, the parts shown being enlarged.

Figs. 3 and 4 are views, with parts` broken 75 away, illustrating the operation of feeding the lead forward.

Fig. 5 is a view, partly in section, illustratin the operation of inserting a new lead.

ig 5al is a detail sectional view.

Fig. 6 is a longitudinal sectional view of a modified form of construction embodying my invention. f.

Figs. 7 and 8 are sectional views similar v to Fig. 6, but illustrating the operation of 8a feeding the lead forward. D

Fig. 9 is a sectional view similar to Figs. 6, 7 and 8, but illustrating the operation of inserting and positioning a new lead.

Fig. 10 is a longitudinal sectional view of another modified form of' construction embodying my invention.

Fig. 11 is a section on the line 11-11 of Fig. 10.

Figs. 12, 13 and 14 are sectional views (Fig. 13 being similar to Fig. 12, but enlarged) illustrating the operation of feeding the lead forward.

Figs. 13a and 14 are sectional views on the 100 lines 13a-1aa and 11a-14- ovf Figsjia and 14,

respectively.

Fig. l5 is a longitudinal sectional view of a further modified form of construction embodying my invention.

Fig. 16 is a section on the line 16-16 of Fig. 15. l

Fig. 17 is a fragmentary elevation.

Figs. 18v and 19 are detail views.

Fig. 2O is a sectional View illustrating the operation of feeding the lead forward.

Fig. 21 is a fragmentary section illustratlng the position of Vcertain elements when a new lead is being inserted.

Fig. 22 is a section on the line 2222 of Fig. 21.

Referring to Figs. 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 5a of the drawings, 1 indicates a body or holder preferably comprising a barrel, cylinder or shell, 2, having at one end a tapered or conical meniber 3. The adjacent ends of the barrel 2 and tapered member 3 are cutv away externally and internally, respectively, to telescope one within the other, thereby providing a smooth surfaced joint on its exterior, and sald telescoping portions are preferably screw threaded to secure them together in a rigid manner. The barrel 2 and member 3 could be made integrally, if desired, but to economize in manufacture and facilitate the assembly withln the holder of a contracting element 4 to which reference will later be made, they are preferably made separately and detachably connected, as just described. As shown the cut away portion of the tapered member 3 forms a shouder 3 against which the contracting member 4 is secured by the free end of the barrel 2 when these parts are assembled.

5 indicates a support or guide element for a Writing element, such as a lead 6. The guide element 5 in the present form of construction is fixed within the body 1, being preferably secured in any desired manner nearits outer end within the tapered member 3. The guide element 5 comprises a tube, its bore being of asize to permit the lead 6 to slide endwise therethrough, but with sufficient frictional contact to prevent the lead from fallingor sliding outwardly due to its own weight. The guide 5 preferably extends inwardly from the writing or outer end of the tapered member?) a distance slightly greater than the length of the lead 6. The guide element 5 preferably terminates at a point adjacent the outer end of the tapered member 3.

7 indicates a plunger or feed member arranged axially of the lead 6 in engagement with its rear end and adapted to feed the lead 6 in a longitudinal direction in the manner to be later set forth. 8 indicates a spring engaging the feed member 7 and normally 'tending to propel it endwise forwardly or toward the lead 6. The spring 8 is interposed between an abutment 9, positioned within the barrel 2, and a head o r thrust plate 10 fixed to the inner end of the feed member .7 The feed member 7 is provided, preferably throughout its entire length, with a series of' shoulders or projections 11 the abutment lfaces of which are uniformly spaced relative gm clined from the outer edgeof one projection 11 to the base of the next projection for reasons which will later appear.

12 indicates a second contracting element positioned within the barrel 2 in spaced relationship to the contracting element 4. The contracting element 12 is preferably fixed to the inner end of a cylinder 13 telescoped within the barrel 2, and movable therein longitudinally as will be later set forth. The cylinder 13 is provided with a transverse wall which preferably serves as the abutment 9 for the spring 8.v The wall 9 co-operates with the walls constituting the upper portion of the cylinder to form a pocket or receptacle 14 for new leads 6. The upper end of the cylinder 13 is closed by a removable cap 15, preferably comprising a ring member 16 and a section of rubber 17 within the' ring member and projecting therefrom to function as an eraser, whendesired. The cylinder 13 is connected ate to cause it to move endwise of the barrel 2 when a new lead 6 is to be inserted as will be later set forth. The devices 18 comprise one or more projections 18 on the cylinder 13 and a corresponding number of spiral grooves with the barrel 2 by devices 18 which co-operl 18 formed on the inner surface of the bar- 19indicates as an entirety, devices for con-4 trolling' the operation of the plunger or feed member 7, whereby the writing element 6 is fed endwise or forwardly relative to the outer end of the guide element 5 or writing end of the body to provide a writing point, or sufficient lead for writing purposes. The controlling devices 19 are preferably arranged to permit feedingI of the lead 6 a redetermined distance at each operation. O these devices, 20 indicates a sleeve or tubular section formed from spring metal and surrounding the feed member 7. 21,b22, indicate setsfof contractible gripping mem ers projecting rom the o site ends of the tubular section 20, reslpld: tively. As shown, each set of gripping members extends through the adjacent contracting element. The contractible grip,-

y gripping engagement with the y formed inte- 20, being lwardly from ppmgmem-` engagement ons il. .as

ripping mem 22, are be the shoulders el in the drawinL v 2l, 22, are nor'nn osed in an outn wr.. elly inclined posi f engagement with the shoulders or pi ejection-s 11, but upon movement cf the section 2G endwise, one thereof 'will engage the adjacent contracting member 4 or l2 and be moved or contracted thereby toward each other, or inwardly, into feed member 4 and l2 7. Each of the contraf comprises ring or ar n oper diameterto effect the cont ac c nward movement of the gripping members into locking engagement with the should-eiser projections 1l. The contracting members 4, 12, are so spaced relative to the gripping members 21, 22, that movement of the section 20 endwise in one direction will result in (1) operating one set of gripping members inwardly into locking engagement with the feed member 7 or in the path of movement outwardly of an adjacent shoulder 11, and (2) releasing and permitting the other gripping members to swing outwardly. The gripping members 21, 22, are preferably provided with outwardly bent `portions 23 adjacent their free ends, which are acted upon by the cam surfaces 24 ofthe contracting members to insure operation of the gripping members inwardly or outwardly with a quick or snap action as the section 20 nears the end of its movement in one direction or the other.

25 indicates a spring connected to the tubular section 2O and normally tending to move it longitudinally of the holder 1 inwardly or away from the writing end of the holder 1. The spring 25 is preferably a coiled spring, bearing at one end against the inner face of the contracting member 4 and at its opposite end acting upon a ring or collar 2G surrounding and fixed to the tubular section 2O to move the latter inwardly. The spring 25 is relatively light and operates to move the controlling device 20 inwardly when outward pressure on the feed member 7 is relieved, thus tending to move the device to the position shown in Fig. 3. The spring 8 is of such size and strength that it will overcome the spring 25, and through the feed member 7 operate to move the controlling device 2() to and maintain it in the position shown in Figs. 1,2 and 4.

It will be noted that the free ends of the sets of gripping members 21, 22, are spaced from each other such distance that when one set thereof engages the abutment face of a projection 11, the other set will be disposed substantially midway between the abutment faces of two adjacent projections 11, such arf r it 3."

mer .ber es the spring 8. v@ne the c. .s .1 the gripping members 22 with member, this operation also moves the section 2O inwardly. fis a result of this movement, .the gripping member 22 will be released from the feed member, whereupon the spr g 25 will act upon the section 2O and move inwardly with a relatively quick snap action. luring such inward movement, the contracting member 4 engages the grip ping members 21 and contracts them into engagement with the feed member 7 g as this action operated to move the sleeve or section 2O longitudinally of the feed member, it will be seen that when contracted, as just described, the 0ripping members 21 will engage bers and a contraction of the gripping members 22, by reason of their engagement with the cam surface 24 to a position within the circumference of the projections 11, to engage the next rearward one thereof-see Fig. 4. The spring 8 will then operate to propel the feed member 7 outwardly until it is arrested by the engagement of the outwardly bent portions 23 of the gripping members with the contracting member 12.

lt will be noted that before the feeding operation is effected the gripping members 21 are disposed between two adjacent projections 11, and when the feed member 7 is moved inwardly to effect the lead feeding operation, and following the release of the gripping members 22 from the feed member, the spring 25 moves the section 20 relative to the feed member and causes the gripping members 21 to engage the abutment face of the next higher or rearward shoulder 11 so that in such operation the section 20 moves inwardly relative to the feed member 7 a distance equal to one half the space between adjoining shoulders; then, as above described, upon the release of the pressure on the holder 1, and following (1) the outward movement of the sleeve or section 20 and the feed member 7 and (2) the'release of the gripping `and effect engagement ofthe gripping memmembers 21 from the latter, inward movement of the section 20, which is effected by the spring 25, will cause the gripping members 22 tov engage the next higher rearward projection 11, thereby again enecting movement of the section 2()` relative to the feed member a distance equal to one-half the space between adjoining projections 11.

It will thus be seen that in each complete operation to feed the lead 6, it is moved outwardly a predetermined distance equal to the space between the abutment faces of the projections 11. v To insert a new lead in the pencil, the cylinder 13, is rotated, such movement, through the devices 18 already described, operating to move the cylimier and the contracting member 12,.which is supported i-n the cylinder, downwardly or toward the writing end of the holder 1. This movement of the contract-- ing member 12 downwardly will first permit the gripping members 22 to disengage the feed member 7. The lower end of the cylinder 13 will then engagethe collar 26 and hold it against movement upward under the influence of the spring 25, thus preventing the operation of the gripping members 21 by engagement with the contracting member 4- see Fig. 5. W'ith both sets of contactible or gripping members 21, 22, in inoperative position-out of engagement with the feed member 7,-the latter is free to be moved inwardly, against the tension of the spring.y The new lead 6 is then inserted, as shown in Fig. 5, such operation serving to move the feed member 7 lnwardly and compressing the spring8. When the lead has been moved inwardly far enough to leave a sufficient extendv ed portion for writing purposes, it is held against outward movement until the cylinder 13 is rotated in the opposite direction to move it upwardly to its first position.l This latter operation permits the spring 25, through the collar 26, to move the tubular` section 2O inwardly longitudinally of the feed member 7 bers 21 therewith. As soon as the gripping members `engage the feed `member 7, the lead 6 may be released. l The spring 8 will then op'- erate to move outwardly the feed member 7 p. and the latter will carry with it the tubular section 20 causing the disengagement ofthe gripping members 21 from the' feed member andthe engagement ofthegripping members 22" therewith, asshown in Figs. `land y2, the

spring'25l operatingk the section 20 during such Ioutward movement'of the feed member,

f LA

as already described. The pencil is now ready for use.

From t-he foregoing description it will be seen that the feed member is at all times acted upon by the spring 8 and that the control devices 19 operate as an escapement mechanism to permit and insure a predetermined movement ofthe feed member and through it the lead 6 outwardly in each complete operation thereof. By changing the distance between the shoulders or projections 11 any desired feed may be imparted to the lead 6 as a result of each complete operation.

In t-he event the lead 6 becomes broken close to or withinl the guide element 5, the lead can be fed forwardv by the use of va pin or some relatively thin rod. In such operation, the lead 6 is forced inwardly by thel pin or rod, and the lead in turn moves the feed member 7 and the` controlling devices 19 inwardly. Pressure on the lead is then released. lf suicient lead is not exposed by such operation, it may be repeated until a writing point is provided or'until enough lead becomes exposed to insure its feeding by the usual method of operation already described.

The lead can also be fed forwardly by moving the gripping members to their inoperative position, in the manner hereinbeforeprevent the projection of the lead beyond the amount desired or required for writing poses. i

In Figs. 6 to 9, inclusive, I have illustrated a modification of'my writing device in which the guide element for the writing element is moved endwise relative thereto to effect a feeding thereof. In these views,'1a indicates a body or holder preferably comprising a barrel, cylinder or shell 2a having at one end a tapered or conical member 3a. These parts are preferably similar in construction to like parts shown in Figs. 1 to 5, inclusive, except that the barrel 2a is provided on its inner wall with an annular flange 27, t0 be later referred to.

5 indicatesy a guide element for the writing element or lead 6a.l The guide element 5a is slidably mounted inthe outer end of the tapered member 3a and is operated in an endwise direction longitudinally of the holder 1a to feed the writing element 6a, as will be later described. The inner wall of the tapered member 3a, adjacent its outer end, is preferably of 4cylindrical shape to form a relatively long bearing for the guide element 5a. The guide element 5a co'mprises a tube, its bore being of a size to permit the lead 6'a to slide endwise therethrough, but with ysuiiieient purlfrictional Contact to prevent the lead from arranged to engage a shoulder 3 on the tapered member 3 to limit the outward movement of the guide element 5 and an extension member 29. The collar 28 is detachably secured to the guide element 5, being screw threaded thereon, to permit assembly and disassembly of certain of the elements constituting .the pencil.

The extension member 29 is preferably of tubular shape. It is connected to the inner end of the guide element 5, being preferably formed integrally therewith. 8 indicates a coiled spring surrounding the extension 29 and bearing at its opposite ends against the collar 28 and the flange 27. The spring 8 tends to move the extension 29 and guide element 5 outwardly. The spring normally maintains the collar 28 against the shoulder 3 which limits the outward movement of the extension 29 and guide element 5, but permits the latter to move inwardly relative to thebarrel 2 and member 3, when the outer end of the guide element 5 is positioned against a surface and the holder 1 is moved toward the surface.l

7 indicates a plunger or feed member arranged axially of the lead 6 and in engagement with its inner end. In this form of construction the feed member is made in sections indicated 31, 32, and a spring 30 is disposed between the sections, for a purpose to be later set forth. The feed member section 32 is slidably supported'at its outer or lower end in the guide element 5 abutting the inner end of the lead 6a. The opposite end of the section 32 is provided with a head 33, slidably fitting the extension 29 and arranged to support the section axially of the barrel 2 and extension 29. 'lhe head 33 also serves as an abutment for one end of the spring 30. The outer end of the section 31 is preferably provided with a head 34 slidably fitting the extension 29 and arranged to support the section 31 axially o'f said extension. rlhe head 34 also serves as an abutment for the other endvof the spring 30. 11. indicates shoulders or projections provided on the feed member section 31. These shoulders are preferably similar in shape to the shoulders 11 already describedin connection with the construction shown in Figs. 1 to 5, inclusive, except that their abutment faces are disposed or face in the opposite direction.

19 indicates as an entirety devices for controlling the operation of the feed member 7, whereby the writing element 6 is fed endwise or forwardly relative to the outer end of the guide element 5,or writing end of the body 1, to provide a writing point of the desired length. Like the devices 19, already described, these controlling devices j 19 feed the lead 6 a'predetermined distance at each lead feeding operation. The controlling devices 19 comprise a pair of spring operated dogs 21, 22, for example, spring 11 to prevent rearward or inward movement of the feed member 7 when writing is taking place and while the other dog 22 is being moved into position to engage the next rearward projection when the operation of feeding the lead 6 is being effected.

The operation of feeding forward, supplying or exposing a new portion of the lead 6 may now be described. The normal position of the elements with a portion of the lead projected beyond the outer end of the guide element 5 is shown in Fig. G, wherein the dog 21 is shown engaging the head 3K1, which may serve as a shoulder 11. The device may be operated to Write with until the exposed portion of the lead wears down relatively close to the free or outer end of the guide element 5. To feed the lead 6 forward, the guide element 5 is positioned against a surface-for example, the surface used to write upon-and the holder 1 is moved or pressed endwise or in a longitudinal direction toward the surface against the tension of the spring 8, (see Fig. 7). This operation will cause the guide element 5 and extension 29 to move in a longitudinal direction inwardly relative to the holder 1. In such movement, the extension 29 will carry with it the dog 22, which in turn will ride the next rearward or succeeding shoulder 11 and position itself behind or rearward of the abutment face thefeof then, if pressure upon the holder 1 is released, the spring 8 will move the extension 29 and guide element 5 outwardly, or in the opposite direction, forcing the collar 28 against the shoulder '3. Such outward movement of the extension, by engagement of the dog 22 with the adjacent Shoulder 11, will move the feed membersection 31 endwise outwardly, and cause the dog 21 to ride the next projection rearward of it during such movement into position behind its abutment face. T he feed member section 31 will in turn act'through the spring 30 to move outwardly the section 32, which will feed the lead 6 forwardly to renew its point or writing portion.

It will be noted that the outer or free end of the guide element 5 extends beyond the free end of the tapered member 3 a distance equal to or slightly greater than the distance between the abutment faces of the projections 111. This arrangement is to prevent movement inwardly of the guide element exrearward projection 11, thereby insuring the feeding ofthe lead a predetermined dlstance at each operation 'equal to the space between the projections 11". The spring 30 operates to permit relative movementbetween the sections 31, 32, constituting the feed member, whenthe operation of feeding the lead is,

carried out, in order that such operation may be accomplished quickly and easily. This construction of feed members is preferable as 1t permits the lead 6" to engage the surface and it and the section 32 to move inwardly with the guide element 5 (see Fig. 7) when the lead feeding operation is effected. Accordingly, the holder 1a may be held vertically or at any other angle to the surfacefor example at the angle at which it is held 1n the hand-and operated longitudinally toward the surface. It will be understood that when the inward pressure on the holder 1a is relieved, the feed member section 31 will move outwardly until it is arrested by the engagement of the collar 28 with the stop 3a and the spring 30 will expand to its normal position, thus propelling outwardly thesection 31 and it in turn projecting the lead Galbeyond the guide element 5a. If the spring 30 was omitted, the lead would be held against inward movement by the dog 21a and the guide clement would have to be moved inwardly independently of the lead in effecting the feeding operation.

13a indicates as an entirety means for moving to and holding the controlling devices 19a in an inoperativeposition when a new lead 6a is being positioned in the guide element 5a. These means comprise a pair of movable elements arranged to engage the dogs 21", 221, and move their free ends out of engagement with or path of movement of the projections 11a. The elements which engage the dogs 21a, 22", preferably constitute the wall of a cylinder 37 slidably and rotatably mounted within the barrel 2". The lower portion of the cylinder 37 is reduced and the upper portion of the extension 29 is enlarged so that the cylinder 37 can t therewithin. As the upper iortion o-f-the cylinder 37 is supported in the barrel 2a, it will be seen that its lower portion is rigidly positioned to slidably support the upper end of the extension 29. The cylinder 37 terminates at its lower end at a point rearward of the dogs 21", 22a, and when moved toward the writing end of the holder 1", its end Will' engage the dogs and move them to an inoperative position, as shown in Fig. 9. lVhen the dogs 21, 22", are in this position, the feed member 7 a may be inoved rearwardly.

A new lead 6al may then be inserted in the guide element 5", as shown in Fig. 9, and positioned readyfor use. The insertion of the lead operates to move the feed member 7"L back to its first position, as shown in F ig'. 1.

The cylinder 37 is then movedrearwardly to release the dogs 21", 22", permitting them to engage the projections 11a.

The upper portion of the cylinder 37 ro-.

tatably and slidably fits the inner wall of the barrel 2". It is connected thereto by guide devices 18, similar to the devices 18 already referred to, which operate, when the cylinder is rotated, to slide it inwardly and outwardly for the purposes above described. The cylinder carries at its upper end a cap 15, comprising a section of rubber 17a for use as an eraser, mounted Ain a ring 16a removably fittin the cylinder 37 romthe foregoing description it will be seen that the dogs 21", 22, constitute an escapement mechanism and control the movement of the feed member "1"11 to insure feed of the lead 6a a predetermined distance at each operation.

38 indicates a disk supportedon the shoulder 39 formed by the reduced portion of the cylinder 37. The disk may be held against the shoulder 39 in any desired manner. The

disk with the side walls of the cylinder 37 form a chamber or receptacle for a supply of leads 6a. Access to the chamber is made by removing the cap 15".

In Figs. 10 to 14, inclusive, I have illustrated another form of construction embodying my invention. In these views, 1" indicates a body or holder preferably constructed similarly to the holders already described in connection with Figs. 1 to 9, inclusive, except that the adjacent ends of the barrel 2" and tapered member 3" are cut away to -permit telescoping of the latter within the barrel. 4" indicates a contracting member disposed between the joined ends of the barrel 2" and tapered member 3". The contracting member 4" its against the shoulder 2" provided by the cut-away in the barrel 2". The contracting member 4" preferably has screw thread connection with the screw threads on the inner wall of the barrel 2". The contracting member 4:" comprises a ring member to permit certain elements, to be later described, to extend through it and its inner wall is preferably cam shaped, as shown at 24", for engagement by the controlling devices, indicated as'an entirety at 19", hereinafter described.

5" indicates a support or guide element for a writing element, such as a lead 6". The

guide element 5" comprises a tube, its bore The inner wall of the tapered member 3",

adjacent its outer end, is preferably of cylindrical shape to form a lrelatively long bearing for the guide element 5". 28" indicates a collar provided on the outer wall of the guide element 5". 8 indicates avspring, preferably of the coiled type, interposed betweenthe collar 28" and the contracting member 4" and tending to move the guide element in a longitudinaldirection outwardly relative to the writing end of the holder 1". As shown, the guide element 5" normally projeLts beyond the outer end of the tapered member 3" (being held in such position by the spring 8), but when moved inwardly it compresses the spring 8".

7" indicates a plunger or feed member arf ranged axially of the lead 6" and in engagement with its inner end and adapted to feed the lead 6" in the manner to be later set forth. The forward or lower end of the feed member 7" is suported in the `guide element 5" or by the controlling devices 19". The opposite end of the feed member 7" is preferably provided with a hea-d or thrust plate 10". 'fixed thereto' in any desired manner. 8" indicates a spring engaging the head 10" and normally tending to propel the feed member 7" endwise longitudinally of and toward the writing end of the holder 1". The spring 8" engages the plate 10" at one end and at its opposite end engages an` abutment 9" mounted in the barrel 2". ment may comprise a ring having screw threaded connection with the inner wall of the barrel 2". whereby it may be removed and also adjusted to increase or decrease the tension of the spring 8". The ring 9" may be connected to and support the outer end of a receptacle 14", which is adapted to hold a supply of new leads 6". The upper end of the barrel 2" is preferably closed by a cap 15". whereby access to the receptacle 14" may be had at any time. The cap 15" may comprise a ring member 16" and a section of rubber 17" therein and projecting therefrom to serve as an eraser. I The devices 19" operate to control the operation of the feed member 7" to insure endwise feed of the lead forwardly relative to the outer end of the guide element 5".

The controlling devices 19" may comprise a pair of gripping members 21" connected to the inner end of the guide element 5", being preferably integrally connected therewith and formed by slitting the wall of the guide element inwardly. The metal of which the guide element and gripping members are formed is resilient so that the latter will normally tend to move outwardly or away from each other after being contracted. The gripping members 21" are disposed upon opposite sides of the feed member and normally out of engagement therewith-see Figs. 12 and 13. The free ends of the gripping members are bent inwardly to insure positive engagement with the feed member 7". The gripping members 21" extend through the contracting member 4" and are so arranged that when the guide element 5" is in its normal positionat the end of its outward movement under the influence of the spring 8-the contracting member 1" will maintain the gripping members 2l" in engagement with the feed member 7 and prevent endwise movement thereof outwardly. As the gripping members 21" are connected to the guide element 5", they will move with the guide element when it moves inwardly relative to the holder 1". When the guide element 5" moves the gripping members inwardly, their free ends will be allowed to expand out of engagement with the feed member 7"-see Figs. 12 and 13. Upon the return of the guide element 7" under the influence of the spring 8', the gripping members 21" will be drawn downwardly and contracted into engagement with the feed member 7", as shown in Fig. 14.

In order that the gripping members 21" may quickly disengage and re-engage the feed member 7", as the guide member is moved inwardly or outwardly, their outer portions are formed with bul ged or outwardly curved sections 23" which serve as cams to engage and disengage the cam wall of the contracting member 4", whereby relative quick movement of the gripping members 21" will result when the guide element 5" is moved inwardly and outwardly'. This form of construction is preferable as it (1) permits the lower portions of gripping members to be arranged parallel to each other, whereby they may be moved in the contracting member a certain distance without being operated, and (2) insures their expansion during the first part of the movement of the guide element inwardly and their contraction near the end of the movement of the guide element outwardly, thereby providing proper and most effective control of the feed member 7" in the complete operation of pressing the holder 1" toward the surface and relieving such pressure. By the sliding engagement of the gripping members .21" with the inner wall of the contracting member 4;", it will be seen that the inner end of the guide element 5" is at all times supported axially of the holder 1".

The construction and operation of the conltrolling devices 19" is such that the feed of From the foregoing descri tion it will be.

understood that by reason o the contact of the guide element 5b with the paper or surface during the writing operation, thegrlppmg members 21 are maintained in a substantially inoperative position and the lead is fed'for- 15 wardly by the spring 8b. When the pencil is lifted due to the ending of a word, crossing ts and dotting'is,'-etc., thespring 8 moves the `guide element outwardly and causes the gripping members 21b to engage the feed member 20 7b to arrest its outward movement. A ccord-` ingly it will be seen that the lead 6b 1s constantly fed forward as fast as it: wears away Y but'isproperly controlled `when the pencil is,

disengaged from thel paper or'surface.

A new lead 6b may be positioned'in the guide element 5b by inserting it endwise therein` and moving it inwardly. Such operation serves to move the yfeed member'7b against the tension of the spring 8b to its starting posi- 30 tion. If desired, the guide element 5b may irst be pressed inwardly to move the gripping members 21b t0 an'inoperative position and so held, while the new lead is being lnserted and the feed member positioned.

In Figs.V 15 to 22, inclusive, I have shown a'still further modified form of construction. In these views 1 indicates a body or holder preferably comprising a barrel, cylinder o r shell 2 having at one'end a tapered or comcal member 3. These parts may be similar in construction to like parts shown' in Figs. 1 to 14, inclusive, or the taperedmember 3b may be formed with a cylindrical bore, as shown in Figs. 15 and 20. In the latter construction the inner `end of the tapered member serves as a stop 3 for a purpose to be later set forth.

5 indicates a guide element for the kwriting element or lead 6. The guide element 5 is y slidably mounted inthe tapered member 3 and is operated endwise to effect `feeding of the writing element or lead 6 in the manner to be later set forth. The boreof the guide element is fproper size to receive and support a lead 6 but to Contact with the lead with sufficient friction to move the lead with it in the manner to be later described. 28 indicates a collar provided on the guide element 5 vand arranged to yengage the stop 3 for limiting the outward movement of the guide element 5, as well as the writing element 6. Y y 29 indicates an extension preferably formedintegrally with theguidegelement 5. The extension 29 is preferably formed with a` bore similar in size to the .bore of the guide a cylindrical member theaxis of'whieh is co-` i incident with the axis of thebarrel 2.A The" inner f or .upper endl of the extension 29 projects into and has sliding, supportingen gagement with the inner walls of the cylindrical member 40. As the" guide element 5 and extension 29 are formed integrally,vthe f l cylindrical member 40 supports koneend of:

this integral member and the tapered member 3 supports its other end to guide themas n they move longitudinally, inwardly and out-y wardly, in the manner to be later set forth.y 1 f 28 indicates a supplemental collar surrounding the vextension 29. 8 indicates a spring preferably coiled around the extension 29'and engaging-the collar, 28 a! outl endl and at itsoppositeend' engaging; the cylin'- ,i i .drical member 40., The'springV 8 tendsrtomove the extension 29 and guide; element 5,vv

outwardly 'and normally to maintainthe collar28,c against the stop 3. f

7 indicates a feed member arra ngeam feed` l the' lead 6 forwardly. The-feed member l preferably comprises a rodl slidably fitting, and extending through theextension 29 and at its lower end engaging the inner end of the lead 6. The feed-member .7 is preferably rovided withrelatively fine annular serratlons 7', as shown in Fig. 18,1onev purpose of which is to insure suicient .frictional contact between the feedmember 7 and.

19 indicates as an entirety devices for convinner walls of the extension 29 so that it willy trolling the feed of the feed member 7. In i this form of construction, the control devices 19 comprise a clutch ring 41 preferably pivoted at one side in a recess42 formed in the support 40 and a spring 43 normally tending to maintain the ring 41 in clutchf ing engagement with the feed member 7, As shown in the drawings, the opy posite sidesv of the inner wall of the clutch f ring 41 yare inclined relative to its axis t to form knife-like edges, which lock against opposite sides of the feed member when the ring is swung in one direction about its pivot, to prevent rearward movement of thefeed member, but tol permit free movementthere- `of in theA opposite direction. The spring 43 yis an expansion spring and is arranged to engage thering 41 at that side opposite to its plvot, as shown in Figs. 15,20 and 21.." As

the spring 43fmaintains theknife edges of* the" ring 41in operative engagement with the 1 feed. member 7f'('see Fig.20), the l.latter is* always locked against rearward movement. The support 40 is formed with a recess 44 at that side opposite to the recess 42 to receive the spring 43 and the adjacent end or edge of the ring 41.

In this form of construction, the guide element 5c and extension 29c are maintained in their outward position, against the stop 3c', by the spring 8c. The lead 6c abuts the outer end of the feed member 7 c, which, being locked by the clutch ring 41, prevents rearward movement of the lead. In the use of this form of construction I prefer to keep both the lead 6c and outer end of the guide element 5-c in contact with the paper. As writing progresses and the lead wears away, the resulting pressuretransmitted, longitudinally, or substantially so, through the holder toward the writing surface will cause the guide element 5c to recede or move inwardly relative to the lead 6, against the tension ofthe spring 8c, then when the pressure is relieved, for example by lifting of the -holder 1c in ending one word and commencing another, the spring 8c will move the guide element and extension outwardly to their normal position. Due to the frictional engagement of the lead and feed member with the bores of the guide element and extension, both will be moved forwardly with the latter, thus causing a feeding of the lead. The annular serrations 7 (see Fig. 18) vinsure positive engagement of the clutch ring 41 with the feed member 7 c.

13c indicates asan entirety devices for moving the clutch ring 41 to and maintaining it in an inoperative position, whereby a new lead 6c may be inserted in the guide element 5c and the feed member 7 positioned to feed the lead forwardly. These devices preferably comprise the following instrumentalities; 45 indicates a cylinder slidably support ed at one end within the upper portion of the cylindrical member 40 and provided with a collar 46. rl'he cylinder 45 is preferably of the same size from end to end to simplify the construction and enable it to serve as a guide and support for the upper end of the feed member 7". 47 indicates a coiled spring interposed between the cylindrical member 40 and the collar 46 and normally acting on the latter to move the cylinder 45 rearwardly, but permitting movement of the cylinder forwardly. 48 indicates a head or cap ron tatably and slidably fitting the rear end of the barrel 2C to close it. The inner end of the head 48 is formed with a recess 49 in which the rear end of the cylinder 45 is secured in any desired manner. 50 indicates a lug projecting from the forward end of the cylinder 45 and arranged to engage the clutch ring 41 on that side opposite to its pivot to move it against the tension of the spring 43 to an inoperative position. -Accordingly, if the cylinder 45 is moved endwise the lug 50 will swing the ring 41 to the position shown in Fig. 21, and release the feed member 70, whereupon the latter may be moved inwardly. The head 48 is preferably connected to the inner wall of the barrel 2c by devices 18c which effect movement of the head and cylinder 45 longitudinally of the barrel when it is rotated. The devices 18c preferably comprise a pair of curved grooves 51 formed in the barrel wall and pins 52 projecting from the Opposite sides of the head 48 into the grooves. It will be seen that if the head is rotated, the walls'of the grooves 51 acting on the pins 52 will cause the head to move -in- Wardly, thus effecting an endwise movement of the cylinder 45. The pins may be maintained in their operative position in the grooves 51 by a spring 53 interposed between them. The outer end of the head 48 may be formed with a recess to removably support a piece of rubber 54.

From the foregoing description it willbe seen that the construction of pencil including the feed mechanism for the lead is relatively simple and comprises but few elements all of which may be easily manufactured and assembled. It will also be seen that these elements are so arranged that the lead may feed forwardly in a ready manner without shifting the pencil in the hand or an other manipuation of the pencil or either and of the writer or user. By controlling and operating the feeding mechanism as described, the user is saved the annoyance of lstopping his work to manipulate the lead asl is required in all pencils of which l have knowledge.

rlhe pencil is particularly,advantageous where continuous l writing is required or where the writing must 'be effected rapidly, as in taking dictation in shorthand. That form of construction in which the supply of lead is continuous, is particularly applicable for continuous rapid writing.

By feeding the lead a predetermined distance in e'ecting each feeding operation, great convenience is afforded the writer as no attention is needed, as in present constructions to see that the lead is projected the right distance. lt will further be seen that new leads may be inserted in a simple manner and without the necessity of disassembly of any of the elements.

To those skilled in the art to which my invention relates, many alterations and constructions and widely differing embodiments and applications of the invention will suggest themselves without departing from the spirit and scope thereof. My disclosures and description herein are purely illustrative and are not intended to be in any sense limiting.

What l claim is:

1. A pencil comprising a body adapted to support a writing element at one end, a guide element through which the writing element moves, means normally acting on one of said elements in an outward direction, and means actuated by pressure transmitted in an endwise direction through one of said elements at the writing end of the pencil for effecting feeding of the Writing element outwardly.

2. In a. pencil, the combination of a body adapted to support at one end a writing element, a guide element through which the writing element moves, operating means including a spring normally acting on one of said elements in an outward direction, and an escapement `means for controlling said operating means, whereby said writing element is fed outwardlyat each operation of said escapement means. f.

3. In a pencil, the combination of a body, a pair of relatively movable elements at one end of said body, one of said elements serving to support a lead, means within said body for feeding said lead outwardly, said feeding means being actuated by the inward movement o-f one of said elements, and means operable by a 'device projecting from the opposite end of the bodyarranged when operated to engage said feeding means to maintain them inoperative.

4. In a pencil, the combination of a hollow body for holding a lead with its outer end projecting from one end thereof, means for feeding said lead outwardly, arranged to-be actuated by movement of said body toward the writing surface while holding the lead in engagement therewith, said means including an escapement mechanism, and a device movably mounted inthe upper portion of said body arranged to engage with and maintain said escapement mechanism inoperative when moved in one direction.

5. In a pencil, the combination of a body arranged to support a section of lead at one end, two relatively movable elements within said body, one of said elements comprising a device arranged to engage the section of lead and the other element being arranged to en gage and disengage saidv device, a spring normally acting on said device to project it outwardly, and means for operating said other element to control the movement of said device when pressure is applied to said device to move it inwardly against the tension of said spring and then relieved.

6. In a pencil, the combination of a body for holding a lead withits end projecting therefrom to permit writing. a feed member, a spring normally tending to move said feed member outwardly, and means actuated by the inward movement of saidfeed member and its release for controlling its movement under the influence of said spring.

7. In a pencil, the combination of a body for holding a lead with its end projecting therefrom to permit writing. a feed member', a spring normally tending to move said feed member outwardly, and means operable at ythe writing end of the pencil for controlling the movement of said feed member under the influence of said spring.

8. In a pencil, the combination of a hollow body for holding a lead with its outer end projecting from one end thereof, a feed member engaging said lead, a coiled spring actying on said feed member and normally tending to move it longitudinally of said body, and means for controlling the movement ol said feed member.

9. In a pencil, the combination of a bod y, a guide element for a writing element, spring operated means normally tending to feed the writing element outwardly, and an escape ment means for controlling said feed means, whereby the writing element is fed outwardly at each operation of said escapement n'ieans.

l0. -In a pencil, the combination of a body for holding a lead with its outer end projecting from one end of said body, a feed member movably supported in said body and engaging the lead at one end, a spring engaging said feeding member and normally tending to push it outwardly, a device carrying a set of gripping members arranged to engage said feed member, and an annular member arranged to slidably support one end of said device and operate said gripping members as said device moves in one direction.

11. In a pencil, the combination of a body for holding a lead with its outer end projecting from one end of said body, a feed member movably supported in said body and engaging the lead at one end, a spring engaging said feeding member and normally' tending to push it outwardly, a device carrying a set of gripping members arranged to engage said feed member, an annular member arranged to slidablysupport one end of said device and operate said gripping members as said device moves in one direction, and a spring tending to move said device in one direct-ion.

12. In a pencil, the combination of a body for holding a lead with its outer end projecting therefrom at one end to permit writing, a feed member arranged to engage the inner end of the lead, a spring normally tending to move said feed member outwardly. and means for controlling the movement of said feed member a predetermineddistance at eachoperation.

13. In a pencil, the combination of a body for holding a lead with its outer end projecting from one end thereof. a feed member supported in said body and engaging the inner end of the lead, a spring engaging with and normally tending to move said feed member outwardly, and an escapementmeans for controlling the movement of said feed member a predetermined distance at each op-y eration. A

14. In a pencil, the combination of a body for holding a lead with its outer end projecting from one end thereof, a feed member supported in said body and engaging the inner end of the lead, a spring engagmg with and constantly tending to move said feed member outwardly, a. reciprocatable 'device having sets of gripping members arranged to alternately grip said feed member, and means for actuating said sets of gripping members during movement of said device,

15. In a pencil, the combination of a body for holding a lead with its outer end projecting from one end thereof, a feed member'l supported in said' body and engaging the inner end of the lead, a spring engaging with and tending to move said feed member outwardly, a reciprocatable device having sets of gripping members arranged to alternately grip said feed member, and spaced contracting elements for operating one of said sets of gripping members as said device moves in either direction.

16. In a pencil, the combination of a body for holding a lead with its outer end projecting from'one end thereof, a feed member supported in said body and engaging the inner end of the lead, a spring engagin with and constantly tending to move sai feed lmember outwardly, a reciprocable device having sets of gripping members arranged to alternately grip said feed member, means for actuating said sets of gripping members, and a spring tending to move said device in one direction.

17. In a pencil, the combination of a body for holding a lead with its outer end projecting from one end thereof, a feed member supported in said body and engaging the inner end of the lead, a spring engaging with and tending to move said feed member outwardly, a tubular member surrounding said feed member and having sets of resilient gripping devices at its opposite ends and movable relative to said feed member, and spaced elements arranged to operate one of said sets of gripping devices when said'tubu-4 lar member is moved in either direction.

18. In a pencil, the combination of a body for holding a lead with its outer end projecting from one end thereof, a feed member supported in Said body and engaging the inner end of the lead, a spring engaging with and tending to move said feed member outwardly, a tubular member having sets of resilient gripping devices at its opposite ends and movable relative to said feed member, spaced elements arranged to operate one of said sets of gripping devices into engagement with, said feed member when said tubular vmember moves in either direction, and means` normally tending to move said tubular member 1n one direction.

19. In a pencil, the combination of a body for holding a lead with its outer. end projectingfrom one end thereof, a feed member supported in said body and engaging the inner end of the lead, a spring engaging with and tending to move said feed member outwardly, a movable device carrying an element at each end arranged to engage said feed member and hold it against outward movement, and spaced devices arran ed to operate one of said elements when sai movable device is moved in either direction.

20. In a pencil, the combination of a body for holding a lead with its outer end projecting from one end thereof, a feed member supported in said body and engaging the inner end of the lead, a 'spring engaging with and tending to move said feed member outwardly, a movable device carrying an element at each end arranged to engage said feed member and hold it against outward movement, and spaced devices in which said movable device is slidably supported arranged to operate one of said elements when said movable device is moved in either direction.

21. In a pencil, the combination of a body for holding a lead with its outer end projecting from one end thereof, a feed member suppor-ted in said body and engaging the inner end of the lead, a spring engaging with and tending to move said feed member outwardly, a movable device carrying an element at each end arranged to engage said feed member and hold it against outward movement, spaced devices inl which said movable device is slidably supported arranged to operate one of said elements when said movable device is moved in either direction, and a spring tending to move said movable device in one direction.

22. In a pencil, the combination of a body for holding a section of lead with its end rojecting therefrom, spaced annular mem ers mounted thegrein, means tending to move the lead outwardly, and an 'escapement mechanism for controlling the movement of said moving means, said mechanism including a member reciprocatably mounted within said members' and carrying devices operated by the latter to alternately engage and disengage an element of said moving means to control the movement thereof.

23. In a pencil, the combination of a hollow body for holding a lead with its outer end projecting from one end of said body, means for moving the lead outwardly, a member movably mounted in said body, spaced rings, one carried by said body and one carried by said member, and a device reciprocatably mounted in said rings and provided with elements arranged to be operated by said rings to alternately engage and disengage said moving means, and a spring for movinv said device in one direction, said'member rbeing movable into engagement with said device to maintain it against movement by said spring.

24. In a writing device, the combination with a hollow body, of means therein for supporting and feeding a lead outwardly to proj ect one end for writing, said means comprising a stationary element, a spring and a plurality of relatively movable elements, one of said latter elements being normally acted upon by said spring and the other co-acting with the stationary element to control the first mentioned relatively movable element, said other element being movable inwardly to release said first mentioned relatively movable element. .z

25. In a writing device, the combination of a body arranged to hold a section of lead with one end thereof projecting beyond the end of the body, a feed member within' said bod in engagement with the inner end of the ead and provided throughout a portion of its length .with projections, a spring constantly tending to move said feed member outwardly,

means,s arranged to alternately Aengage and disengage the projections on said feed member to hold and release it, said means being operated by the inward and outward movement of said feed member. u

26. In a writing device, the combination of a body arranged to hold a section of lead with one end projecting from its end, and means f of a body for movably supporting therein a writing element with one end projecting from one end of said body, means within said body for feeding the writing element outwardly, said means including an element normally tending to feed the writing element outwardly and arranged to operate upon movement of the writing element inwardly, and means operable from the opposite end of said body and arranged when operated to prevent operation of'said feeding means.

28. .In a writing device, the combination of a body for holding a writing" element, a supporting element in which the writing element is .mounted to feedendwise, means within the body normally tending to feed the writing element outwardly through its support-A ing element, and devices actuated by one 'of said elements `for controlling the 'movement thereof inwardly and the feeding of the writing element outwardly a predetermined distance at eachoperation of the moved element.7

29. A'pencil comprising a body for holding a writing element, a guide element for the writing element, and means for feeding the writing element outwardly, said means including a spring actuate device normally for operating said elements when said device is operated.

31. In a pencil, the combination of a body arranged to'hold a writing element with one end projecting from one end thereof to. permit writing, devices for feeding the writing element outwardly,l one of said devices being arranged to engage the lead to feed it, said devices including a spring normally acting on one of said devices to move it in one direction, and means for engaging and releasing the device engaging the writing element and arranged to operate when the latter is moved inwardly;

32. In apencil, the combination of a body, a pair of relatively movable elements disposed at one end thereof, one of said elements comprising a lead and the -other element comprising a tube through which the lead is movableendwise, a feed member normally tending to feed the lead outwardly, an escapement mechanism operable by a movement of one of said elements relative to said body to control the movement of said feed member, and means for maintainingsaid escapement mechanism inoperative at will 33. In a pencil, the combination of a body, a pair of relatively movable elements, one of said elements comprising a lead projecting from one end of said body, an escapement mechanism actuated by the movement of one of said elements inwardly of said body relative to the other element to feed the lead outwardly, and means for at will maintaining said escapement mechanism inoperative.

34. A pencil comprising a body for holding a lead with oneend projecting from one end of said body to permit writing, means, including an escapement mechanism, constructed and arranged to support and feed the lead outwardly by movement of the pencil body toward the writing surface while holding the lead in engagement therewith, and means for l maintaining said escapement mechanism inoperative at wlll.

3 5. A pencil comprising a body for holding i a lead with one end projecting from one end of said body to'permit writing, a feed member engaging the lead, a spring normally tending tov move said member outwardly, an escapement mechanism arranged to engage and `release the feed member to control its operation by movement of said body toward the writing surface while holding the lead vin engagement therewith, and means arranged when operated to engage said escapement mechanism to hold it in an inoperative position.

36. In a pencil, the combination of a body for a Writing element, a guide member for feeding the writing element outwardly, a spring vnormally tending to move said member outwardly, a device arranged to reciprocate in-said bodyand having an element arranged to disengage and engage said feeding member in each reciprocation thereof, whereby said feeding member. is progressively moved to feed the writing element, and means engaging one element of said means to maintain it inoperative at will.

37. In a pencil, the combination of avbody for holding a section of lead with its outer end projecting from one end thereof, and means for feeding the ,lead outwardly, one of the elements of said feeding means comprising a feed member engaging the lead, and said means including a spring normallyacting onone. element thereof and devices for l holding said feed member against outward movement, said devices being arranged to disengage said member' upon application of pressure thereto and to re-engage therewith upon relief of the pressure to permit movement of said feed member a predetermined distance under the influence of said spring.

38. In a pencil, the combination of a body for holding a lead with its outer end projecting from one end thereof, a feed member movably supported in said body and engaging the lead atone end, a device having an element arranged to engage said feed member, and a spring engaging said feed member and normally tending to push it outwardly and acting therethrough and through said device to hold said element in engagement with said feed member, said device being operable by the movement of the lead inwardly to effect disengagement of said element from said feed member.

39. In a pencil, the combination of a body for holding a lead with its outer end projecting from one end thereof, a feed member supported in said body, a spring engaging with and normally tending to move said feed member outwardly, and an escapement means for "controlling the movement of'said feed memi ber. t

40. In a pencil, the combination of a body for holding a lead with its outer end project- 'ing from one end thereof to permit writing, and correlated elements, certain of which are movable in opposite directions to effect a feedingof the lead outwardly, one of said ele,- ments comprising a feed member engaging the lead and a spirng normally tending to move said feed member outwardly.

41'.' In a pencil, the 'combination of a body for holding a lead with its outer end projecting' therefrom, a feed member for the lead provided with projections throughout a portion of its length, a spring engaging said feed member and tending to move it outwardly, and devices arranged to alternately engage said projections on said feed member to control its movement predetermined distances due to movement of said body toward the writing surface while holding the lead in engagement therewith.

42. In a pencil, the combination of a body for holding a section of lead with its end projecting therefrom, spaced annular members mounted therein, means tending to move the lead outwardly, and an escapement mechanism for controlling the movement of said moving means, said mechanism including a member reciprocatably mounted within said members and carrying devices operated by the latter to alternately engage and disengage an element of said moving means to control the movement thereof and a spring acting on said member in one direction.

43. In a pencil, the combination of a body for holding a lead with its outer end projecting from one end thereof, a feed member engaging the inner end of the lead, a spring acting on said feed member and normally tending to move it and the lead outwardly, and means for controlling the outward movement of said feed member, said means including a reciprocating member having pairs of engaging devices arranged to alternately engage said feed member, said reciprocating member being actuated in one direction by said feed I member under the influence of said spring and-in the opposite direction by movement of said spring. v i

44. In a pencil, the combination of a body for holding a lead with its outer end projecting from one end thereof, a feed member engaging with the inner end of the lead, a spring acting on said feed member and normally tending to move it and the lead out-v wardly, and means for controlling the outward movement of said feed member, saidY means including a reciprocating member having pairs of engaging devices arranged to alternately engage said feed member, said reciprocating member being actuated in one direction by said feed member under the influence of said spring and in the opposite direction by movement of the lead and feed member inwardly against the tension of said spring and arranged to permit a predetermined outward movement of said feed member for each inward and outward movement member and arranged to movethe latter a predetermined distance in each said operation, and means arranged when operated to hold said moving means inoperative.

46. In a pencil, the combination of a body for holding a section of lead, spaced annular members mounted therein, means constantly tending to move the lead outwardly, a member reciprocatably mounted within said annular members and provided with devices arranged to be actuated by the latter to alternately engage and vdisengage said moving means, a spring acting on said member in one direction, and means for holding said spring 15 against movement.

47. In a pencil, the combination of a body for holding a section of lead, spaced annular members mounted therein, means constantly tending to move the lead outwardly, a member reciprocatably mounted within said annular members and provided with devices arranged to be operated by the latter to engage and disengage said moving means, and means for moving at will one of saidannular members into an inoperative position.

48. In a pencil, the combination of a body for holding a section of lead with its outer end projecting from one end thereof to permit writing, a feed member en aging the inner end of the lead and mova le a distance substantially equal to the length thereof, a spring constantly acting to move said feed member outwardly, and means having elements arranged to alternately engage and disengage portions of said feed member and arranged to b e actuated by the inward movement of the latter, whereby said feed member under the influence of sald spring is moved step by step.

49. In a pencil, the combination of a body for holding a section of lead with its outer end projecting from one end thereof to permit writing, a feed member engaging the lead, -a spring constantly acting to move said feed member outwardly'a distance substantially equal tothe length ofthe lead, devices arranged to alternately engage and disengage said feed member, said devices being reciprocatable in said body, and means carried. by

the body for'operatmg said devices when reciprocated.

moved inwardly against the tension of said spring.

51. In a pencil, the .combination of a body adapted to support a writing element, a guide element through which the writing element moves, a device engaging the inner end of the writing element, a spring constantly tending to move said device outwardly,and means for holding said device against outward movement, but arranged to be actuated by the inward movement of said device to release it for outward movement, whereby the writing element is fed outwardly.

52. In a pencil, thccombination of a body for holding a lead with its end projecting from one end theieof to permit writing, operating means for guiding and feeding the lead outwardly a predetermined distance at each operation, said operating means includ- `ing an element engaging the lead to move 1t outwardly 'and an element through whichthe lead and said engaging element move, and a spring normally acting on one of said elements to move it outwardly,said means being operated by the inward and outward movement of said engaging element.

53. A pencil as claimed in claim 40 in which means are rovided at the opposite end of said body or preventing operation of said correlated elements.

In testimony whereof, I have hereunto subscribed my name.

HOWARD I. MORRIS.

'50. In a pencil, the combination of a body Y for holding a section of lead with its outer end projecting from one end thereof to permit writing, a feed member for the lead movably mounted in said body and provided with a series of uniformly spaced projections, a spring arranged to move said feed member a distance substantially equal to the length Co of the lead, devices arranged to alternately engage the projections on said feed member to alternately hold it against movement and release it for movement under the iniiuence 'y of said spring, and means arranged to; activ" S5 ate said devices when said feed member is 

